By Steven Agen
Prior to playing their first match of Copa America Centenario, it was common knowledge for Argentina and boss Tata Martino that their opener would determine a great deal about their bid for the trophy. Defending Copa America champions and rising force Chile presented a huge test for the World Cup runners-up. The challenge was only made greater by the absence of Lionel Messi due to injury.
Argentina dispatched Chile 2-1 and were more dominant than the scoreline suggested. With the toughest test of the group out of the way, Argentina proceeded to lay into Panama next. Messi made a sub appearance, dazzling the crowd in Chicago by completing a 19 minute hat trick after the game was already comfortable. The match finished 5-0 and clinched Argentina’s progression to the quarterfinals.
As predicted, the two positive results have put Argentina in position to clinch the top spot in Group D regardless of the outcome of their last group stage fixture. It would take a defeat to group bottom dwellers Bolivia while Chile would need to make up the rest of a 6 goal differential in tie breakers against Panama to knick the top spot. While local fans are clamoring to see Messi take the pitch at CenturyLink Field, it may be wiser for Martino to save his star for the knockout rounds. Argentina did their job in the first two matches of the tournament — this one is about keeping the form going as they coast on to the next round.
From the Bolivian perspective, the match will be their last in Copa America Centenario. A disappointing 2-1 loss to Panama was followed a heartbreaking defeat by the same scoreline to Chile. Jhasmani Campos had equalized at 1-1 for Bolivia with a stunning left footed free kick just after the hour mark, but the point was not yet safe. Chile were awarded a penalty kick for handball deep into stoppage time which Arturo Vidal converted to win the match 2-1, eliminating Bolivia.
With nothing left to play for but pride, expect Bolivia to come out with a full strength squad. Argentina however, will most likely utilize a reserve heavy line-up. Nonetheless, Argentina has a top class team from the top to bottom of the roster and should be expected to easily handle even a full strength Bolivian side.
Prediction
Argentina 3 – Bolivia 1
